Bruxism - Signs and Symptoms

The habit of grinding, gnashing, grating, or clenching the teeth
is termed bruxism, and millions of adults and children are affected by this
condition. While its exact cause is unknown, most experts believe that bruxism
can occur as a response to increased psychological stress.

Bruxism involves any type of forceful contact between
the teeth, whether silent and clenching, or loud and grating. Estimates vary
regarding the number of people who suffer from this condition and range
from 50-95% of the
adult population. Approximately 15% of all children also acquire this condition.
Many people are not aware that they have this condition because they grind their
teeth at night while asleep, although bruxism can occur during daytime hours as
well.

Certain sleep disorders are accompanied by bruxism. Drinking alcohol and
taking certain medications (for example, antidepressants) may worsen the
bruxism. Malocclusion (improper alignment of the teeth) may also play a
causative role or may determine the severity of symptoms related to bruxism.
Children may develop bruxism as a response to a cold or other infection
and are more likely to develop it when their parents are affected. Some
studies show that persons whose personalities may be described as
compulsive, controlling, precise, or aggressive have an increased incidence of bruxism.